VISIT TUOLUMNE COUNTY SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR 2026 TOURISM AWARDS
Nominations open July 1-August 15, 2026. Awards will be presented at the annual Tourism Summit on October 15, 2026 at Chicken Ranch Casino Resort
Visit Tuolumne County, the official destination marketing organization of Tuolumne County, California, will once again be awarding individuals or organizations in the tourism and hospitality sector who have worked hard for the betterment of Tuolumne County’s tourism industry over the past year.
“It is important to honor and recognize the people who contribute to the success of tourism, Tuolumne County’s leading economic driver. Their efforts often go unnoticed, and it thrills us to be able to celebrate their impact,” said Lisa Mayo, President and CEO of Visit Tuolumne County.
The nomination period is July 1-August 15, 2026. The winners will be recognized at the annual Visit Tuolumne County Tourism Summit on October 15, 2026. Additional information is available at www.visittuolumne.com/tourism-awards.
The Tourism Advocacy Award will be presented to an individual, organization, or business that has demonstrated outstanding dedication to promoting tourism in Tuolumne County. The award is open to local leaders, business owners, nonprofit organizations, or government officials actively supporting the tourism industry who have significantly contributed to tourism growth, marketing, advocacy, or policy improvements that benefit the destination.
Visit Tuolumne County (VTC) Board members will review candidates and select the award recipient based on criteria including impact on tourism, advocacy and leadership, longevity and commitment, and community and industry support.
The Spirit of Tuolumne County Award will be presented to the individual, nonprofit, or business that contributes to the betterment of Tuolumne County through tourism-related efforts. The recipient must demonstrate community involvement, volunteerism, or initiatives that enhance the visitor experience or preserve local culture and heritage. This can include individuals who embody the welcoming spirit of Tuolumne County and go above and beyond to assist visitors.
The Hospitality Hero Award is open to all hospitality workers (hotel staff, restaurant servers, tour guides, retail employees, housekeepers, etc.) who provide exceptional service to visitors and display a welcoming attitude and a commitment to excellence. The recipient must have at least one year of experience in the Tuolumne County tourism and hospitality industry and be nominated by an employer, coworker, or industry peer.
Nominations may be submitted by community members via the online nomination form at www.visittuolumne.com/tourism-awards. A selection panel comprised of VTC staff and community leaders will review nominations and select the recipient based on impact and contributions. Criteria include community impact, commitment to Tuolumne County, inspiration and leadership, and visitor engagement.
A review panel of industry representatives and VTC staff will evaluate nominees based on the selection criteria, including excellence in customer service, professionalism and work ethic, teamwork, leadership, and positive visitor feedback. The winner will be determined by a combination of peer votes and panel review.
Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau, doing business as Visit Tuolumne County, is a 501(c)(6) mutual benefit corporation organized November 23, 1983. VTC is funded through a portion (16% as of July 1, 2025) of the Transient Occupancy Tax charged on overnight lodging stays. VTC leverages marketing funds by closely partnering with larger organizations such as Brand USA and Visit California. Each year VTC creates a comprehensive year-long multi-platform marketing plan. VTC is also home to the Tuolumne County Film Commission.
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Media Contact:
Lisa Mayo
President & CEO
Visit Tuolumne County
lisa@gotuolumne.com
209-533-4420
